Caudal and middle segmental mandibulectomies for the treatment of unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis in cats

Abstract

Case series summary Three cats affected by unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis underwent segmental mandibulectomy, while one cat with bilateral ankylosis underwent right temporomandibular joint gap arthroplasty and left segmental mandibulectomy. Minimal intraoperative complications were linked to the segmental mandibulectomies in the cases reported. All cats recovered their ability to open the mouth, and the vertical range of motion was unaltered during the postoperative period. Mandibular drift and dental malocclusion were the main postoperative complications related to the segmental mandibulectomies. Relevance and novel information Surgical excision of ankylotic tissue at the temporomandibular joint region may be technically challenging and associated with severe iatrogenic trauma of surrounding tissues. The results of this case series suggest that middle or caudal segmental mandibulectomy is a safe, feasible and effective surgical procedure to treat unilateral temporomandibular ankylosis in cats and could be considered as an alternative surgical technique to surgical excision of ankylotic tissue at the temporomandibular joint.

Kinematic performance of a novel temporomandibular joint replacement prosthesis under bite-force conditions in dogs and cats

“…15,16 Ankylosis is a severely debilitating condition; patients exhibit a loss of ability to open the mouth that progresses rapidly. 15,17,18 Ankylosis of the TMJ prevents adequate water intake, food prehension, thermoregulation, grooming, and vocalization. 15,18 Ankylosis may also lead to skeletal and dental malocclusion, periodontitis, and oral mucosal ulcers.…”

“…15,17,18 Ankylosis of the TMJ prevents adequate water intake, food prehension, thermoregulation, grooming, and vocalization. 15,18 Ankylosis may also lead to skeletal and dental malocclusion, periodontitis, and oral mucosal ulcers. Gap arthroplasty has been demonstrated as a salvage procedure where ankylotic tissues are excised to allow for opening of the mouth.…”